An Anthropological Lens on Male Survivors of Childhood Abuse

Sociology and anthropology cannot make an effective and evidence-based analysis without gender data, and this also applies to the investigation on child abuse, a phenomenon largely silenced, being a taboo. This was the assumption on which I based my speech during the conference “Un altro genere di posizione: il ruolo degli uomini nel contrasto alla violenza su donne e bambini” (Another Kind of Position: the role of men in contrasting violence against women and children), organised by the Centro Antiviolenza Artemisia in Florence, on 22 November 2024. Part of the Eredità delle Donne 2024 programme, this event represented not only an important opportunity for me to disseminate my research findings, but also a personal journey of learning towards a collective understanding.

During my talk, I briefly presented the long-term consequences that child sexual abuse has on males once they become adults. This topic was observed from an anthropological perspective, in order to understand the cultural dimensions of the issue.

A deafening silence

Child sexual abuse is a devastating fact that occurs regardless the gender, but the experiences of male survivors often remain in the shadows. Gender stereotypes and social stigmas build walls of silence, fuelled not only by society, but sometimes by men themselves, trapped in expectations of strength and invulnerability.

The anthropological outlook

In my work as an anthropologist, I seek to understand the cultural realms which surround this phenomenon. During my ethnographic research, I explored how childhood trauma affects the concept of ‘home’ and safety. For many, home is no longer a place of shelter, but a maze of painful memories. This state of mind can be additionally complicated by circumstances such as migrant background, belonging to racialised communities, sexual orientation and the experience of disabilities.

Every survivor who is empowered to speak breaks a chain of silence that can potentially change lives. Every individual who listens with empathy then becomes part of the change.

Why it matters

The conference organised by Artemisia is a bridge of active collaboration between men and women committed to counter gender-based violence. The organisation has been supporting victims and raising awareness for 30 years, collaborating with institutions, the police and schools. Being part of this endeavour has meant contributing to a more aware and committed community.

The presentation slides can be downloaded for free here👇🏽

Artemisia 2024 (Gabriele Rosato).pdf

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